Venezuela and Iran Forge Cooperation Amid U.S. Oil Seizures
UPDATE: Venezuela has announced that Iran is extending broad cooperation in response to escalating U.S. seizures of oil tankers linked to Venezuelan crude. This development comes after U.S. authorities confirmed the seizure of a second tanker on December 20, 2023, intensifying tensions in the Caribbean region.
In a statement released on his Instagram account, Venezuelan Foreign Minister Yván Gil revealed that he spoke with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi, who offered support “in all areas” to combat what Caracas describes as U.S. “piracy.” Gil emphasized that “everyone has seen the recent events in the Caribbean, especially the threats and acts of piracy by the United States,” referring to the ongoing seizures of vessels carrying Venezuelan oil.
The U.S. Coast Guard, under the direction of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, intercepted the Panama-flagged tanker Centuries in international waters. Noem confirmed that the tanker, which had recently docked in Venezuela, was seized as part of a sustained effort to counter the illicit movement of oil allegedly financing “narco-terrorism.”
This recent seizure represents a significant escalation, as U.S. authorities have now taken possession of two tankers this month alone and are actively pursuing a third vessel, identified as Bella 1, previously sanctioned for transporting Iranian-linked oil. A U.S. official stated the Coast Guard is in “active pursuit” of this vessel, which is reportedly operating under a false flag.
The Venezuelan government has vehemently criticized these actions, labeling them as “theft” and a form of “international piracy.” In light of the ongoing seizures, Venezuela has requested an emergency meeting of the United Nations Security Council, while China has condemned the U.S. sanctions, describing them as “unilateral and illegal.”
As the situation develops, the implications for international relations and oil markets are significant. The U.S. maintains that its sanctions aim to thwart evasion and combat drug trafficking, while Venezuela’s government argues that these actions are an attempt at regime change and control over its oil resources.
With tensions rising and alliances shifting, the global community is watching closely. The cooperation between Venezuela and Iran could reshape regional dynamics, especially in light of increased U.S. enforcement against perceived threats.
Stay tuned as this urgent story unfolds, with further updates expected in the coming hours.
